Worst Drugstore Ingredients for Aging Skin?

As a dermatologist, I always advise my female clients, especially those over 40, to carefully check the ingredient label before buying skincare products. These products come with promising ingredients, including Vitamin C, retinol, squalene, and peptides that freshen the skin’s appearance. That’s not all; the same products are home to harmful ingredients that may cause irritation or damage your aging skin. What are these harmful ingredients?

Alcohols

Moisturizers and lotions come loaded with two types of alcohols; fatty alcohols and solvent alcohols. The former works for aging skin, while the latter can do more harm than good. Solvent alcohols, including isopropyl alcohol and ethyl alcohol, cause a stripping effect, which involves absorbing the skin’s natural moisture, leaving it dehydrated and irritated. Dehydrated, irritated skin cannot properly repair and regenerate skin cells, increasing the risk of fine lines, rough skin, and wrinkles.

Sulfates

We interact with sulfates, including sodium lauryl sulfate, in skin cleansers, shampoos, toothpaste, and detergents. Although they are marketed as a safe ingredient, sulfates also cause a stripping effect. For women over 40, sulfate products are more likely to trigger itching, flakiness, and redness when used frequently.

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Julia Davis

Psychologist, Mental Health Expert at shopgiejo.com

Mental health expert
MS, University of Latvia

I am deeply convinced that each patient needs a unique, individual approach. Therefore, I use different psychotherapy methods in my work. During my studies, I discovered an in-depth interest in people as a whole and the belief in the inseparability of mind and body, and the importance of emotional health in physical health. In my spare time, I enjoy reading (a big fan of thrillers) and going on hikes.